A former Sullivan County officer turned political opponent of Sheriff Wayne Anderson has made criminal complaints about the incumbent's reelection campaign, claiming misuse of taxpayer-funded resources and spurring a probe by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.

County Commissioner Ty Boomershine, who is seeking the Republican nomination for sheriff in the party primary, brought forth the allegations. Sullivan County District Attorney Gen. Barry Staubus confirms that due to his relationship with both men, he requested another district attorney look at the complaint.

TBI spokeswoman Illana Tate says Sevier County District Attorney Gen. James Dunn requested on Monday that the TBI investigate. She confirmed that the allegations concern potential "misappropriation of county resources."

In a letter obtained by the Times-News, Boomershine outlines the alleged offenses. They center on a flyer advertising a late November fundraising event for Anderson's reelection campaign.